Why Credential Maintenance Matters
Maintaining your LEED credential isn’t just about staying compliant—it’s about staying competitive. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and the Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) require ongoing education to ensure credentialed professionals remain up to date on the latest in green building standards and strategies. This commitment to lifelong learning strengthens your expertise and signals credibility in a dynamic marketplace.
LEED Credential Maintenance Program (CMP): Overview
The LEED Credential Maintenance Program applies to all active LEED professionals and helps ensure they stay current. Whether you’re a LEED Green Associate, LEED AP with Specialty, or LEED Fellow, continuing education supports both personal and professional growth.
How Many CE Hours Do You Need?
| Credential | Total CE Hours (2 years) | LEED-Specific |
|---|---|---|
| LEED Green Associate | 15 | 3 |
| LEED AP with Specialty | 30 | 6 (specialty-specific) |
| LEED Fellow | None (encouraged) | N/A |
Types of Activities That Qualify for CE Hours
- Education: Online courses, live webinars, or in-person workshops
- Project participation: Hands-on experience with LEED-certified projects
- Authorship: Writing articles or papers on LEED-related topics
- Volunteering: Involvement with USGBC programs or committees
- Teaching or presenting: Delivering presentations on LEED content
Earning CE Hours with GBES
GBES makes continuing education simple with our library of pre-approved courses for all LEED credential types. Whether you’re looking for a single course or all-access membership, GBES Unlimited provides flexible, efficient ways to meet your requirements and stay ahead.
How to Report Your CE Hours
- Log into your GBCI account at usgbc.org
- Select “My Credentials”
- Click on “Report Hours”
- Choose the activity type and enter details
Note: Some hours are automatically reported by approved education providers, including GBES.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing your renewal deadline
- Not meeting LEED-specific hour requirements
- Forgetting to report hours properly
- Failing to keep documentation or proof of completion
Credential Renewal Process
Your LEED credential must be renewed every two years. To do so, complete the required CE hours and pay the renewal fee through your GBCI account. If your credential lapses, reinstatement may require retesting or additional fees.
Maintaining Multiple Credentials
If you hold multiple specialties (e.g., LEED AP BD+C and O+M), your CE hours can overlap, but you must meet the specialty-specific hours for each.
FAQ: LEED Credential Maintenance
- Can I carry over extra CE hours to the next cycle?
- No, GBCI does not allow hour rollover.
- What if my CE activity is rejected?
- You can revise and resubmit or complete a different approved course.
- Can I reinstate a lapsed credential?
- Yes, but it may require reapplying, retesting, or paying late fees.
- Are there free ways to earn CE hours?
- Yes, USGBC occasionally offers free webinars and GBES provides access to free LEED resources.
Start Earning Your CE Hours with GBES
Don’t wait until the last minute to renew your credential. Explore GBES’s full range of CE bundles and subscription options to stay compliant, competitive, and confident in your LEED expertise.
